UK uncertainty over launch date for Surface Pro

The enhanced version of Microsoft’s new Surface tablet – Surface Pro – has been earmarked for launch in the US and Canada on 9th February. Surface Pro’s release date for the UK, however, has yet to be confirmed, with some reports merely stating that the tablet’s launch in other countries could be several weeks, or even months, away.

Whilst the current Surface model – the Surface RT – is only able to use software in app form via the Microsoft app store, the forthcoming enhanced version is said to be compatible with a far wider range of software installations.

The Surface Pro is also said to be eagerly anticipated by potential users since – whilst heavier and slightly thicker than the RT – it boasts an Intel Core i5 processor, as well as a screen resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels.

Retail prices for the Surface Pro are expected to start at $899 (£570).

Some industry commentators have claimed that although the existing Windows RT tablet has a user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing interface – and is relatively affordable at £399 – it does not contain enough unique features to entice many potential purchasers.

These same commentators argue that knowing an enhanced version of the device is due to be released shortly might also deter some purchasers from investing in the RT model.

It is further argued by some that Microsoft might be risking losing a fair degree of consumer goodwill outside Canada and the US owing to the frustration of not knowing when the Surface Pro will be made available.